A year ago I was CC in to an e-mail by mistake by a beauty influencer. They were declining an offer for a sponsored video because the fee wasn't high enough. A mention was £20k (not a dedicated review - just a mention of the product/company) so you can imagine what the fee would have been for a sponsored dedicated video. What struck me the most about this e-mail wasn't the money (which is outrageous anyway) but the tone. They were so rude to the company. I never forgot that. Keep being amazing Marlena. You are bringing attention to a community that should be filled with beauty but in reality is filled with much hateful behaviour.
You and Marlena are two people I’ve been following for years and will continue to do so! Thanks for being so honest and awesome! It really shows through your videos!
And PS. In my early days of UA-cam I reached out to BIG youtbers for help on a lighting issue. Not one replied. Apart from Marlene. She replied, gave me tips, what to buy and help. I thank you for that. Truly.
And she is so genuine, mature and kind. Her heart is gold. She’s stepping up and making a change. She’s doing something instead of just sweeping things under a rug. The year isn’t over yet and light will shine on the others who continue to lie or act like the victim.
Makeup Geek was one of the brands that sent me amazing PR when I first started out which was so amazing considering I didn’t have the largest following but they appreciate my work so I was so thank ful
Makeup with Jah that’s great I’m just starting out and haven’t gotten anything 😂 you were one of the lucky ones most of us don’t get anything! What these companies don’t realize is just even a tiny PR to some of these people could really boost the bottom line and I’m not talking about myself I’m talking about so many of these other up-and-coming artists it literally cost them one $.50 t send a single eye shadow to someone 😂 but the loyality they would get from that one single shadow would be 10 fold lest your dealing with someone like JH 😂 but at the end of the day she was a business person so she went where she knew she would make more money 😂
Marlena - please don't forget about your mature beauty community (40+ mature skin makeup lovers!!). We need some love and help as well. Thank you for all you do. Love your makeup line and very much looking forward to seeing more from you and your wonderful company.
I agree! I almost 40 and feel very left out a lot of the times in regards to advertisments and makeup. We love makeup too! I hope to showcase that fact more and more on my channel
I honestly believe that PR packages should stop altogether. It will force people, huge influencers, micro influencers and pros to purchase the products themselves and give honest reviews on these products. There are other ways for youtubers to be paid. I've always loved MUG products. The quality of your makeup has always been awesome
misscelly83 how are PR packages different from ARCs (advance reader copy) or pre release movie screenings? It's a way to try to promote a product before it launches. Just because some people in the beauty community are being greedy/shady doesn't mean PR packages should stop. The problem is that we don't know if the reviewer involved in some backhand agreement (most likely illegal) but we (the people buying stuff) should always take reviewers opinions with a grain of salt just because we don't know if they are being completely honest.
Best reason to buy MG Domenica Calarco😁 plus, it is inexpensive in comparison to other brands that are made in CHINA. She could've made so much more making mg out of country, so she deserves our support.
Who wants to see Wayne Goss do Marlena makeup whilst sharing his tips ??? :)))))) Ps Marlena we feel you and can see the sincerity in your words and heart ❤️ Kudos to you for making a stand and a pledge to make change. Your a breath of fresh air in the current ugly beauty community. You and Wayne goss together yessssssss xoxox
Marie Stopa I’m at the time of my life where I can actually AFFORD this makeup so I can’t I imagine how those just starting out in life keep up with the expensive hobby
Marie Stopa 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾I’m 47, and I’m always looking for videos for older women. Wayne does do a great job. We are huge consumers and would love to see more videos for older women who just love makeup but don’t desire to have a channel or do makeup professionally.
Marie Stopa so TRUE!! Lisa J. Makeup Makeup 101 with Lisa And there is alot more! Giving a spotlight on those that deserve and have worked hard over the years!!
Please don't forget the mature community that has been left out!!!!! I'm 53 yrs and very lucky people say I look in my 30's but please reach out to the mature beauty channel there awesome but forgotten. XOXO
This woman right here!!!! SHE IS THE REAL DEAL!!!!! No BS drama with her, totally cares 100% about her customers and followers!!! Marlena you dear are THE QUEEN of all beauty influencers!!! LOVE LOVE LOVE YOU!!!!
You are the reason I started my own makeup line! I admire you so much Marlena and these chats help me now that I am at the beginning stages of building my own thing ! Keep up the good work 🙌🏻🙌🏻💕💕
Im almost 40 and as a small influencer would love to see our age group repped more in regards to beauty and makeup. I think there is a huge market for us and rarely see our age group repped. I hope that MG keeps us in mind as well.
❤ Yes!! I.totally agree with you!! I am going to check out your channel right now!! Glad i saw your comment!! Been looking for influencers in the 35+ category ☺
I'm 35+ and I think there is an audience for our age group.....however I don't think it is that big. It is usually younger audiences looking for these tutorials.
@@joolsdr My channel is turned off to private atm until I'm ready to relaunch...had to take a break due to some surgeries, medical issues but I'm gearing up to get it going again soon!
I love how open, honest, and intelligent you are. So inspiring. I have been following you for a long time and you have stayed so true to your audience and to yourself! 💕
Marlena I really hope you'll consider partnering with Emily Noel, her heart and her OG presence remind me of you so much! Y'all would make a great team on a project!
I had just commented something similar, how there's just so many influencers & like you said, the algorithm, that it's not like you can just do a simple general search. I mean I suppose you could, but who has time to search thousands of pages lol
I will repeat my truth here too, hopefully the mature community will not be forgotten in your plans because we are always left out and we are important consumers as well! I may not do videos but I would like to see women in my demography using your products because it would be useful for us too! Talking about interaction with viewera, the ladies I watch, even those that have a few thousands subscribers, always always write back and they post a fews times a week.
Yes!!! It's hard to find someone over 40! The few I've found are fantastic but they certainly dont receive the love they deserve. We are savvy consumers, we have some disposable income, we still want to be trendy but not ridiculous! Great comment!
Thank you! You and Marlena are inspiring me to come back to my UA-cam channel. I am 43 and have been told by other bloggers/vloggers that there just isn't an audience for me in fashion and beauty. I am just starting out in this are and love it but feel like I am talking to a wall. So when I had surgeries this year, I took a break. These videos and your comments remind me why I started to begin with!
Marlena please don’t forget about us girls that don’t have perfect skin, I’d love to see a beauty influence that struggles with acne/large pores so we see what works out there.
Marlena, you have won my heart back 💕 I miss seeing your products. I started a collection of shadows years ago and I am going to go back to your products. You are transparently genuine and that is what I miss the most (and tutorials) so much love 💕
makeup geek has actually sent me products when i had 1,000 followers and i will never forget that! i agree it is the bloggers and the brands fault both. i know this is a business and that is fine but i just miss the artistry, creativity, the passion behind it all. we can build our brands while holding our integrity. big or micro influencer, big or micro brand, i hope we can all cordially succeed in this industry while maintaining integrity.
I think I need to fill my collection with Makeup Geek because Marlena seems to be the only one I can trust ! Plus her brand is made in the USA meaning that everyone is getting paid a fair wage ! Thank you Marlena ❤️
Thank you I’m 3,500 in debt because I was convinced that I needed to purchase more and more . I know this is my problem I turned to the beauty community as form of escape. I’m a cosmetologist but I was severely injured in a vehicle accident and lost my ability to do what I loved! I will tell you following these large makeup gurus has become a addiction hence the buy buy buy. It’s a awful feeling when you actually hear and see how these beauty influencers contradict themselves and what is really worse is watching de clutter videos of products that I have purchased solely because of their recommendations being through out or “Donated”.
ICU Comments Where is your self control tho ? You can’t blame others for your compulsive shopping disorder ! No one can force us to do or buy anything we don’t want !
I agree her debts on her, but I have also bought stuff because 10 influencers swear it’s amazing best product this year to see them not ever use it again then toss it. I do my research before I go spend a ton of money I really do and I can afford to buy it but I don’t want to waste money no one does I just hate seeing new launches or paid reviews saying it’s amazing or great and it not be. So now I watch for entertainment but it sucks I would like honest reviews.
Adi R yes I totally agree it’s my fault. I developed a shopping addiction related to my injury and my love of my career in this industry. When you see major influencers loving a product and telling you not to wait on this!! Also,, this is the best of blank product on the market!
I agree ... I found myself buying because I was told you need this. It filled a void and it really became addicting in a way. Thank god I realized quickly the game that was being played and stopped buying just because. People may say its your own fault for spending money, I get to an extent it is but do not think this isn’t exactly what influencers/companies want. They want people sucked in and blindly buying.
Personally I unsubscribed to almost all those youtubers because I don't believe or trust their reviews. I've been sub to you for years... way way before you even had a brand. I you have always been passionate and honest. I really hope other brands will follow your lead. ❤
Velvetulipe so true. I feel dumb because when I first started watching some of these big influencers makeup reviews, I would fall for the hype. It’s been eye opening as a consumer for me
YESSS, let's get back to the makeup. Back to the honest reviews! 🙌🏽🙌🏽 I'm so over all the drama. Let's focus on those who are honest and passionate, so excited about this movement ❤
Not to mention all the camera filters used nowadays. I swear no one looks like that in person. Some use such bright light, it's hard to tell the real finish look because their face is so washed out, yet they want you to believe the product is amazing. I stopped paying attention to those so called "influencers" A LOOOONG TIME AGO! #4truthinmakeup
Makeup Geek is honestly one of my favorite makeup brands. I have to honestly say, I kinda put them on the back burner because I was so overwhelmed with ALL the new crap coming out it seems like daily now. I think I’m going to get back to my roots, I miss my “peach smoothie,” and “shimma shimma.” I’m done wasting my money, because I will never be able to have all of it. Marlena, you are truly a nice person, thanks for having integrity.....
I still use those! I have a bunch of MUG in Z Palettes. I wear makeup daily but rarely eyeshadows. When I do, I always reach for the MUG palette especially when traveling. Ride or die: creme brulee, peach smoothie, beaches and cream , vanilla bean (almost gone!), barcelona beach, shimma shimma, unexpected and cupcake. All you need to do natural, smokey and dramatic looks.
Sara01977 I love my MUG singles. I take mine with me when I travel. I use Peach Smoothie all over to set my primer, Creme Brulee in the crease, Cocoa Bear in the outer corner, and Shimma Shimma on the lid! My Ride or Die look right there!
You are such a beautiful person inside and out. I have followed you since the begining. I have watched you back in the days when you were talking about starting a makeup company . And fast forward to 10 yrs later and your killin it!!! Yo go girl .... i love how honest you are and also how you have always stayed true to yourself. And that right there is a Boss/classy woman... Thank you!
It is better, be hated for what you, are - then loved, for what you are not. Already, 5, thumbs down ..hmmm....for me, personally, after watching you for years and going through , happiness and sadness, trials and tribulations of your life, you have ALWAYS been, genuine and wear your heart on your sleeve. When you spoke - they shook in their boots. We love you because of who you are, and what you stand for 💖
Thank you Marlena, I credit my late in life love for makeup to YOU and your tutorials I found a few years ago. You bring heart and genuine passion to the beauty community.
Thank you for doing this. Marlena and Emilynoel83 were the first beauty influencers I ever subscribed to. About 8-10 years ago. No one called them influencers back then either. I never had anyone to teach me about makeup and the main reason I watched was to learn how to apply makeup the correct way. I miss people getting on UA-cam and showing techniques and mentioning products they actually love and use. Not that they are sent and/or paid to talk about. The beauty community has become motivated by a passion for fame and money. No longer about makeup. I love that Marlena is going to work with smaller influencers and pro artists. I just really hope the beauty community can stop focusing on just money and number of subscribers/views and get back to the passion of makeup.
Same! Back in the day with the Naked palettes (of course that's where it started!) I went to UA-cam to see what people were doing with it. The world of palettes was a new thing to me, and then I got sucked in and loved it all so much I started my own blog. The getting free stuff was never the goal for me or even to get paid, it was a hobby and I was in college. Getting free stuff from time to time as a small blogger who was poor and in college was really nice because then I had something I could make content about, but I never let that influence my opinion at the product at the end of the day.
Hey Marlena, I can see how emotional this video is for you to make, and just want you to know it's very appreciated. I've only started shopping your brand in the last year but you make me feel confident in that choice.
This is why I love you, Marlena! I have followed you from the beginning and seen you grow - I have grown with you as well! You are an inspiration to all women. Hearing you speak, I can relate to you so well. I feel like I am listening to an old friend. I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us in the future. Hugs from Texas!
I’m going to continue to support MUG, honest companies like you need to be protected by the beauty community, we can’t let corrupt influencers and brands win. It’s different being a CEO of a company, than being the average bear I know you do things for a reason, I’m so excited to begin my MUG collection
Yes I am supporting them big time now. I even said so in a video following on from Marlena's. I already have a couple of their eyeshadows and will be adding more now, They are very affordable and equally as good
Once again, thank you for your candor. And sweetness. It's so sad to think that Makeup Geek had a tough year. Makeup Geek is literally the BEST quality Eyeshadow that exists. I tell everyone that and always have. Your brand should be at the top and I hope that with all of these truths coming out, MUG also gets the recognition it deserves.
Jaime French I tell people that all the time too. When I first started really getting into makeup a few years ago (I’m older and I’ve always worn makeup but just the basics) My first eyeshadow palette was a Morphe 35o that everyone was raving about at the time. I used it for a while, thinking it was good. AND THEN I ordered a bunch of MUG shadows. Once I started using them I realized what GOOD eyeshadows were. I realized that it was taking twice the amount of time to blend the Morphe shadows and that they weren’t even NEARLY as pigmented. Since that time I have amassed a TON of eyeshadow palettes and there are only 2 that I use on a regular basis (ABH modern renaissance & Juvia’s Place Masquerade) But other than those two I reach for my (many) MUG shadows and to this day my MannyMUA/MUG collab palette is my go-to palette that I use all the time and the only one I travel with. The colors are just so beautiful and w/ that palette I can do anything from a quick wash of color to a bold dramatic smoky eye and anything in between. I love MUG. The shadows are just so user friendly so even a non-makeup artist like me can create super blended professional looking eye looks. And don’t get me started on the highlighters. I have a million and one beautiful highlighters but the MUG duochromes are the only ones I reach for.
I’m SO excited for the PRO makeup artists. Real MUA’s! I’m so tired of seeing the same techniques, that look great under beauty lights, but heavy and caked on in person. If anyone knows any good MUA’s that post regularly, please comment their names, so I can check them out!
Miss Krystyna , Bailey sarian, she’s amazing ! I love her she’s gorgeous , but different , it’s so refreshing. I hope you check her out , she and another lady work for Demi lovato and her crew .
Marlena, thank you. From an energy standpoint...keep clearing your throat chakra! This was needed for you along with all the throat clearing...amazing shift!
I hope that now these huge influencers are "exposed" that more micro influencers like myself that actually buy MG products and use them regularly will now be noticed. Its really up to all of us as consumers to be mindful of who we support. That goes for both companies and influencers.
MakeupMenaree I so agree. I think my biggest struggle with having a tiny channel is that I cannot keep up with those who get goodies pre-launch. By the time I’m able to get to the store or buy online there are 100s of big influencers who’ve made videos pre-launch. That does frustrate me because how can tiny influencers compete? We can’t but we shouldn’t give up!! 💕
@@LaynieLashes yes I find that to be a huge issue as well! By the time we get our hands on products it's too late. And sad thing is we are the ones who give HONEST reviews lol Def keeps you honest in you are the one buying the product for yourself lol I'm excited for this shift. Back to ppl who actually love makeup and do it bc they love it!
It is super expensive. Im in Tx so I have to order most products bc they never seem to be available when new. So by the time I do my reviews the hype is gone.
Yes, educate these people Marlena. Most of the time people are talking out of their butt because they don't know how this works. It's not only a beauty side, but also a business side to the beauty industry. Keep being the beautiful Marlena that you are; don't let these people stress you out. #4TRUTHINMAKEUP
I NEVER comment on videos but I freaking love this video and everything you said Marlena!!!!!!! I can feel your passion for the beauty community. Your authenticity is greatly appreciated!!!!!!
I believe that PR packages have stopped these big influencers that get them ALL to stop looking at products from a customer’s perspective. They get them for free which means they don’t look at the product in an “is it worth the money” way anymore. Also, because they want to stay on the PR lists, not to get all the products for FREE, but to get the product FIRST so they can be the first to review it, to get the views, they try to be as soft as possible on the products & are not COMPLETELY honest. I think that if companies were to do away with PR packages but like a couple weeks before launch allow the influencers to PURCHASE the product early to review it (which would be a win win. The influencer gets to review it early to get the views and the viewer gets to see reviews on the product before it comes out to see if it’s something they are interested in) the reviews would become honest again.
Companies have to stop taking infliensers off their PR lists for speaking the truth about products. MUG did this too. Also quality of their products and packaging has been lacking but prices keep going up. Maybe they should worry about that first if she is talking about integrity in a beauty community
Luv2luvem so true. When I buy my makeup Vs when a family memeber or someone gives me a product they didn’t want, I hold it to a higher standard. Idk what it’s like from an influencers perspective but that’s a valid point you made
I don't disagree with you, but PR is so pervasive in so many industries I don't see it going away. I published a book last year and the publisher gave out bags and pins and a ton of swag to a bunch of random people. I do see it as a huge problem that people are so scared of losing PR tho. When the whole Subculture palette kerfuffle went down, one of my favorite influencers did a review and tutorial and said all these nice things.....but her makeup looked like SHIT. It made me so sad because I don't feel like I can trust her anymore.
Kimmaline I know it will never happen, I just wish it would. But PR is probably the most cost effective form of marketing. I mean, just shell out the cost of the makeup (and not even resale price, the actual cost to make it) and shipping and they can get free promotion. I mean, it’s smart, it works and it’ll never go away. But these days I pretty much only go to small influencers that DON’T get PR for my reviews because they are the only ones that 1: bought it themselves, so they can tell me if it’s worth the money or not, and 2: they’re not on the PR list anyways so they aren’t worried about saying something to get taken off. I just think those are the most honest reviews and I really don’t take the word of any of the bigger “popular” influencers anymore.
We understand and support you, Marlena! You have such a good heart. Good luck and keep doing great things!!! I just shopped at your store. I love your plush mattes and EVERYTHING!
YESSS!!! Thank you for being so open & honest. I REALLY feel like this will be the turning point for the beauty community. 💖 HONESTY OVER EVERYTHING!! 🙌🏼 It makes me SICK when I can clearly tell a paid promotion is happening & not being disclosed. It's so disrespectful to the audience & the brand. (as well as other influencers that ARE honest. Not disclosing makes us all look bad) The brand could have gone to ANY influencer out there.. It's like a huge slap in the face to the brand giving them that opportunity when they don't disclose! Thank you SO much for using your huge platform to speak truth & the efforts you're making to bring this community back to our roots!! 💕 I can't wait to see what the future holds for you & MUG!! 💗
Yup. Money being involved, but being presented as a genuine review... turns it into a huge conflict of interest. When most do not disclose properly or fully... it makes everyone look bad & questions the trustworthiness. Not to mention, it's quite illegal.
Well said Marlena! To spotlight women over the age of 40 would be fantastic! Being that I am 44 however look younger as I age my skin needs change so does my taste in makeup. MUG is a brand who always comes through with quality quality quality. I found this video very important as you are both sides of the coin - brand owner and influencer. PR packages need scaled down. People need to go purchase the products and try them out! Brands with quality speak volumes in application. Thank you for wanting to showcase smaller channels and pros! Pros especially as they hold the key in technique. All day long if you gave me a choice I would sit with or watch a pro first!!! Love Marlena. Thank you for taking the time today!
That is an amazing idea! I love it !!!! Women of all age and skin types love makeup and that would be such an awesome addition to the beauty community!
You are such a bomb woman/business woman/influencer! Thank you for being so raw & real. Maybe one day I can work with Makeup Geek! I’m a mommy/lifestyle influencer but I freaking love makeup & Makeup Geek!! I use your shadows every single day & Im proud to support you 😊❤️
exactly! Im almost 40 and even as a smaller influencer feel left out when everything is geared towards ppl my childrens ages. We love makeup too lol I hope they remember us!
I want to say thank you for doing all the videos that you have done. You are an amazing teacher. I am 27 years old and I didn't wear much makeup until 2 years ago. And I am now confident enough (thanks to you) to wear color, any color, and all colors that I want to!! My self confidence is so much better. I can afford high end makeup but can do amazing work with drugstore all thanks to you!!!
After watching this video I have so much respect for you and for Makeup Geek. Your commitment to your employees, work environment, wages, etc., as well as your commitment to the beauty community with honesty and artistry first is inspiring. Good on you Marlena.
Right I'm so happy the she is thinking about her workers, the people that make all this possible.wish every company would do that. It would be good if they'll decided to have a range payment to all influencers of course depending on subscribers with out over pay or under pay just something reasonable where every body will be happy and satisfied. That's what I think 😊
Before UA-cam and beauty influencers was a thing, before digital media, this entire issue was seen in print media. I worked in luxury magazine publishing for almost 10 years, and our editors were sent all the makeup/skincare PR, designer handbags, exotic trips, and much more, just for a mere mention of a product. The greed was unreal, and there was zero integrity. I have always known that anything mentioned in a magazine was essentially paid for. Now it's UA-cam. You have to do the research yourself, use some critical thinking and buy something because you truly believe in the company as a whole, what they stand for and what they offer to the marketplace, which is grossly oversaturated. I'd personally much rather support small companies than huge conglomerates-even if it means spending more. And if that means the money goes to the staff, that means everything.
I worked in PR to and for beauty company. And you're exactly right. This same thing went on in print media. So all that changed was the medium. When business is involved caveat emptor.
I love how transparent you have been in your last few videos! That is what I personally look for in an influencer. Honesty gets you so much further in life! I can’t thank you enough for your transparency! XO!
The so called beauty influencers who are reacting negatively to your videos, have guilty consciences....they know they were exposed and so they go on the attack. They are running scared because their greed and phoniness are now on blast. They will lose subscriptions so they are freaking out. Hold on tight Marlena......the cream always rises to the top.
I am a consumer, and I have been seeing all these "my truth" videos, and I have honestly been getting tired of them. I watch UA-cam and influencers so I can get better tips and tricks on how to do my makeup. I absolutely love your products Marlena, they are beautiful, nicely pigmented, blend beautifully. I appreciate you coming on here to speak your side of the story. Now, hopefully, we can all just get back to watching videos and loving makeup and just having fun. Love you Marlena and your company, just keep smiling :)
I love that you are bringing new faces to the beauty community. I started looking up makeup artists here on YT a few weeks ago even before you mentioned it and I found some gem channels. Can't wait to discover some new talented people!
I think the price influencers are getting paid is rediculous, the price consumers are paying for makeup is rediculous!!! The consumers are getting sick of it!! We're finding out that 95 percent of these influencers.....are full of crap!! I will buy my own makeup, if it doesn't work, it will be returned! I don't need some fake review, I will do my own review!!!!
Have you ever watched Bailey Sarian?!? OMG she's a real one. She's been around forever! She's so funny and her makeup speaks for itself. Check her out, seriously...
Agree! They're on tropical vacations and we're paying $40-$50 for foundation?! Ridiculous! And no influencer on this platform is worth even 20K a video! Not even PewDiePie!!
Every big influencer that i am subbed to started off in their bedroom doing their videos and the content was always focused on the make-up and the application of make-up...teaching us to do it ourselves. There was also focus on it didn't matter what brand you were using in fact most times it was using affordable make-up. But then it all changed and suddenly it was like watching commercials for high end make-up making us feel like we had to have these products to get a look. The honesty went out the window and so did the real connection between viewer and content creator. Let's get back to that like Marlena said! HONESTY...why is that so hard??? We can do this. Give your view to someone who is a positive influence!!! Great video Marlena and i totally support you and what your trying to accomplish in the beauty community!!!❤❤❤#4truthinmakeup
@@nataliaarita4165 Girl me too!! Some of my favorite videos to watch were where the 2 channels would send each other make-up(i forget what they actually called them)! Do you remember that?? And those days collabs just meant the 2 channels were going to either shout each other out and do the same concept in their videos or we really got a treat and got to see the 2 people collab in person on their channels! Those were the good old days....yeah my eyebrows were questionable but it was fun to watch lol.
I love this comment. I feel like I don't see many influencers over their 20s. Im 32 I always try to find ppl my age but not much luck when it comes to fashion or makeup type stuff so sometimes i can't relate haha
You’re amazing and the best part of the video you speaking about how well you treat your employees !!! That it self speaks so much about you and your company !!
Fake / interested Community is angry because the more they have more they want, you are the best and we know that there is a lot of talent in people who are not yet noticed, DRAMA is drama, funny that someone ppl bothers to publish photos on a page, when they should thanks that Publisity is for free. 🤗 #TeamMG
Marlena, you are such a gem. There aren’t very many people out there in your position that are kind, genuine and so relatable. Taking the time to really care for others is so above and beyond what others would even do, you really are amazing! Thank you for being you. You are an inspiration to us all.
Class act? I'll never forget when she called Rihanna's line clown makeup on their launch day. The jealousy was real. Good she's trying to help micro influencers since she's screwed a couple over in the past. People have been presenting receipts.
You are so real and so wonderful. You shouldn’t have to explain yourself like this! Keep being genuine and wonderful! Here is to seeing changes in this community!!
And Marlena!!!!! I seriously have been following you for the past 8 years!!! I love your videos and your brand!! Ive supported you and what you stand for - for a long time. I only use your makeup brushes bc they are quality AT a good price!! And when its in my budget i order from you. I also LOVE that you’re concerned about your staff as much as your product!!!! I wish the place that I work for cared that much about me!!! That alone means so much and says a lot about you.bc you care about the people behind the scenes!!! And I appreciate that!!! I’ll Continue to support you and what you stand for!!! Thanks for making these videos OXOXOXOX
I do mainly editorial and red carpet makeup and Marlena you have been so supportive and sent me a lovely (and so generous) gift after I had such a negative response from brands that used to be supportive of actual makeup artists. I was told that because I only have 2k followers on instagram they wouldn't gift products to the celeb I was working with for an awards show in the uk. Thank you for the support of artists and not just "influencers", who in my opinion, have ruined the industry that I was once so passionate about.
Thank you for taking the time out to explain how all of this works... at least a glimpse !! Love you and the time and energy you put in all of this ! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
I can tell your heart and soul is in UA-cam/ the beauty community!!!! You are a queen and deserve to be the queen of this beauty community the mama of it all. I love that you have been in this industry for so long and still stick to your truth and your morals. I will be watching all your videos, jus give me a few months lol. I wish u the best girl. I’m one supporter of you, and I hope there’s millions standing behind you!!! I was thinking in my head about a month ago like why doesn’t big youtubers shout out micro Influensers?? Bc they don’t want many people to take there spot and it’s sad, I’m definitely not saying I deserve to be on top, I’ve only been posting videos for a few months, I’ve supported youtubers since 2013 tho. I really hope you see this comment cuz you are a fantastic example of a great person. I hope nothing but the best for you and much success 💄💋
I was just about to comment for Marlena to support you! I found your videos from her last video when you commented and have been loving them so much! 💜💕 keep up the amazing work!
I’m glad something was said because i don’t think we expected our influencers to be basically salesmen. They started out with us before being a “youtuber” was a job. So we did not understand this stuff. It’s very eye opening. We need to be aware of what we are endorsing with our subscribing. WE give them the numbers that allows them to charge these crazy rates. We should all go through our subscription list & make sure we subscribe to people we really support.
Lord I love the person you are. You've always been so relatable, so honest, silly and just a good human being. I love what you are trying to do for the beauty community and bringing it back to its roots. I miss the old UA-cam and how it was tutorials and looking at makeup collections. It has definitely moved into what feels like constant ads and commercials rather than, "I'm doing this because I love makeup." I agree with you, everyone should be allowed to make a buck, but like you mentioned, honest disclosure is necessary. We love you Marlena. Keep being that amazing girl boss.
Thank you for this. As a very mature (older) woman I completely understand the struggle with supply, demand and cost. I am a supporter by purchasing your products and viewing your channel and feel that truth will ultimately go in your favor. Continue speaking the truth and you will always come out on top.
I loved this video! Thank you Marlena for always doing what you can for the beauty community! I remember watching you from the very beginning seeing what a journey you've been on! You're such an inspiring woman! xxx
Honestly I’m so excited for this movement because we all started because of passion for makeup and artistry and there’s a select few I already follow who I truly love and are smaller. Yes Marlena we are excited
I'd much rather support a US company that pays fellow citizens a good wage. There are few good jobs for us these days. I'd love to work for a company that supports it's employees and is concerned with the well being of their employees. There are a few of them out there but they're the minority. Thank you Marlena for having a US based company with US employees.
People complained about MUG prices but if a company is producing products in the US and paying fair wages, the product price cannot be rock bottom like the prices offered by WetnWild and Elf for example (made in China). You don't need every makeup product, just budget for makeup from quality companies that take care of their employees. :)
@@Tisiphone2 I concur! It's worth a few extra bucks to me knowing that people are being treated fairly. I'm not saying I'd never buy from companies that produce products in China since I literally bought an Asian foreign car today but there's something about supporting a good company ran by good people who take care of their employees.
I’d love to see you go into Ulta 💖. I know that we would sell make up geek so well there. I know that it’s probably a lot more difficult to do then just all let me put my stuff in a big Chain store. But I remember about a year ago I had a lot of people who talked about make up gig that would come and do my job and it’s affordable I mean color pop does really well. I know I would buy her stuff if you sold the brushes there and everything oh girl I’d be so down!
I think it would take a lot for that to happen. As great as it sounds! She has spoken about that stuff before. Target is huge for her💃. Hopefully one day!!
Has anyone noticed these influencers post a video, then you don't see them for 2 weeks to a month because there always sick. They are sick more times then a 2 year old that goes to daycare, when they work from home!! It's because there getting over paid! It's like Mc Donald's always saying there ice cream machine is broke! It's b.s. and the consumer is catching on!!
Collette Love your comment! I can relate as I have worked with people like that who are sick more times then a 2 yr old in day care! That is so funny and so true!
Collette I’m pissed cause the most I would charge is 2k not matter what. That’s how you make money not no 60k all at once. Just shows that they REALLY want nice things and big houses when they can work towards it in a fair way. Sad but true.
@@bd8962 sad but true. Yes, I think most of us were think just that. Like Tati, I get how she might have a big house and nice thing. Cause that girl has posted 5 days a week for years and worked her tail off. It's just all getting out of control....SAD.
This video gives all of us Mirco Influencers faith! Thank you so much Marlena for everything that you are doing in your power to make a change and make this community better!!
You are truly a breathe of fresh air and a inspiration. I'm a 42 yrs old woman that found her love for makeup around the beginning of this year. I hopped on youtube and starting watching alot if the " popular" influencers. It sad to say that I myself have been swindled by the lies and deception of some of these influencers. I assumed they were giving honest true reviews on these products. I didnt know any better. Up until I started watching the influencers I had never even heard of Morphe, Two faced, Tarte ect.. I barely knew the products I saw at the local pharmacy. So I trusted them and starting building my makeup collection off of products they recommended. Not all turned out to be bad choices but alot did and I now sit with a beauty full full of ALOT of products I dont use , that are horrible and I wouldnt even give away. My solution was to stop buying makeup all together until I can figure out who to trust and who not to trust. I cant afford to keep buying makeup that the influencers swear by just to end up with subpar products. So i hope by you starting this movement it will waken up people in the beauty community and they will realize that they are hurting thier subscribers greatly by not being honest. Yes they are earning $ but at our expense. I just found you and Subscribed to u through all of the JH drama. Wish I had found you sooner. Keep doing you and standing out from the rest ♡ sending lots of love from Massachusetts
Oh yea, the same happened to me. I got into watching beauty videos 3 yrs ago and the rubbish I've bought all cuz someone swore by it is ridiculous. Sometimes I remember how much I've spent on makeup and it pains me. Now I don't just go off a whim anymore. Not that I can afford to do that now. I have a bit of MUG single eyeshadow and I still use them till today. Love them..
I came across your video today on my feed on UA-cam and I agree with you!! Yes, we all would like to make money however how most of these beauty influencers are going about it is unethical. Narcissistic personalities are capitalizing off of makeup brands is how I truly see it.
A year ago I was CC in to an e-mail by mistake by a beauty influencer. They were declining an offer for a sponsored video because the fee wasn't high enough. A mention was £20k (not a dedicated review - just a mention of the product/company) so you can imagine what the fee would have been for a sponsored dedicated video. What struck me the most about this e-mail wasn't the money (which is outrageous anyway) but the tone. They were so rude to the company. I never forgot that. Keep being amazing Marlena. You are bringing attention to a community that should be filled with beauty but in reality is filled with much hateful behaviour.
💚
Wayne Goss thanks for sharing! Love your videos 💜
👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 Love you both for speaking up.
You and Marlena are two people I’ve been following for years and will continue to do so! Thanks for being so honest and awesome! It really shows through your videos!
And PS. In my early days of UA-cam I reached out to BIG youtbers for help on a lighting issue. Not one replied. Apart from Marlene. She replied, gave me tips, what to buy and help. I thank you for that. Truly.
Now this is what honesty looks like! 💜
sanders kennedy yasssss
xoxo
And she is so genuine, mature and kind. Her heart is gold. She’s stepping up and making a change. She’s doing something instead of just sweeping things under a rug. The year isn’t over yet and light will shine on the others who continue to lie or act like the victim.
sanders kennedy hey . I’m with you
sanders kennedy please support her! She deserves it!! Xx
Makeup Geek was one of the brands that sent me amazing PR when I first started out which was so amazing considering I didn’t have the largest following but they appreciate my work so I was so thank ful
Makeup with Jah that’s great I’m just starting out and haven’t gotten anything 😂 you were one of the lucky ones most of us don’t get anything! What these companies don’t realize is just even a tiny PR to some of these people could really boost the bottom line and I’m not talking about myself I’m talking about so many of these other up-and-coming artists it literally cost them one $.50 t send a single eye shadow to someone 😂 but the loyality they would get from that one single shadow would be 10 fold lest your dealing with someone like JH 😂 but at the end of the day she was a business person so she went where she knew she would make more money 😂
Jah ur work is freaking a amazing!!!! I live for it
Marlena - please don't forget about your mature beauty community (40+ mature skin makeup lovers!!). We need some love and help as well. Thank you for all you do. Love your makeup line and very much looking forward to seeing more from you and your wonderful company.
Kathie Nickerson 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
I agree! I almost 40 and feel very left out a lot of the times in regards to advertisments and makeup. We love makeup too! I hope to showcase that fact more and more on my channel
Yes!!!!!
Kathie Nickerson yes!!!! Our value is often overlooked.
I honestly believe that PR packages should stop altogether. It will force people, huge influencers, micro influencers and pros to purchase the products themselves and give honest reviews on these products. There are other ways for youtubers to be paid. I've always loved MUG products. The quality of your makeup has always been awesome
Omg YESSSSSSS.
Best comment. Honestly. So wise.
Yes!! PR packages and brand trips have ruined this community.
misscelly83 how are PR packages different from ARCs (advance reader copy) or pre release movie screenings? It's a way to try to promote a product before it launches. Just because some people in the beauty community are being greedy/shady doesn't mean PR packages should stop. The problem is that we don't know if the reviewer involved in some backhand agreement (most likely illegal) but we (the people buying stuff) should always take reviewers opinions with a grain of salt just because we don't know if they are being completely honest.
Agreed!!
Americans should be SUPPORTING Makeup Geek over MORPHE! MG is MADE in the USA!!! Morphe is not!!!!!!! Support your people!!!!!
Exactly! Support home grown business!
Colourpop is also made in the USA!
Why the yelling?
Best reason to buy MG Domenica Calarco😁 plus, it is inexpensive in comparison to other brands that are made in CHINA. She could've made so much more making mg out of country, so she deserves our support.
Domenica Calarco agreed
Who wants to see Wayne Goss do Marlena makeup whilst sharing his tips ??? :))))))
Ps Marlena we feel you and can see the sincerity in your words and heart ❤️
Kudos to you for making a stand and a pledge to make change. Your a breath of fresh air in the current ugly beauty community. You and Wayne goss together yessssssss xoxox
Ditzy Princess OMG YES!!!!!
Yes 🙋🏻♀️
I would LOVE to do this! We'll see if we can make this happen ;)
You two together would be a dream come true! #Marlayne
Yeeessssssss!!!!!!!!!
Marlena I would love a movement for beauty Influester over 30ish. Every company, ad is young beautiful Influesters. Over 40 buys lot of make up too
Marie Stopa YES!!! 🙌🏼💕
Marie Stopa
🙌🙌🙌🙌🙌 agreeeeee!!!
Marie Stopa I’m at the time of my life where I can actually AFFORD this makeup so I can’t I imagine how those just starting out in life keep up with the expensive hobby
Marie Stopa 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾I’m 47, and I’m always looking for videos for older women. Wayne does do a great job. We are huge consumers and would love to see more videos for older women who just love makeup but don’t desire to have a channel or do makeup professionally.
Marie Stopa so TRUE!!
Lisa J. Makeup
Makeup 101 with Lisa
And there is alot more!
Giving a spotlight on those that deserve and have worked hard over the years!!
I'm new to Marlena's channel.. she gives me major Adele vibes 🎵
Bernadette Teaches Music
I was thinking that the other day! But something about Adele bugs me. Marlena is more balanced, in my opinion.
Haha, you are right - especially in this video!! 👏
Because she's fat?
@@PearlsAndFloral31 no one even said that. so rude. adele is beautiful as is marlena
Please don't forget the mature community that has been left out!!!!! I'm 53 yrs and very lucky people say I look in my 30's but please reach out to the mature beauty channel there awesome but forgotten. XOXO
Becky Ruiz I need your skin care routine please! 😂
It would be smart for more of these companies to look to the mature beauty community because there’s more money in the target demographic.
U go girl !!
Becky Ruiz Same here. I’m 38yrs old Indian woman and would like to see more mature Indian and non Indian beauty channels. #4truthinmakeup
We have more experience with products and can truly evaluate and promote items with truth
This woman right here!!!! SHE IS THE REAL DEAL!!!!! No BS drama with her, totally cares 100% about her customers and followers!!! Marlena you dear are THE QUEEN of all beauty influencers!!! LOVE LOVE LOVE YOU!!!!
Stephanie Singleton 👏👏👏👏
You are the reason I started my own makeup line! I admire you so much Marlena and these chats help me now that I am at the beginning stages of building my own thing ! Keep up the good work 🙌🏻🙌🏻💕💕
You don’t owe anyone an explanation! You spoke your truth and I agree and support you!
+Amen
Im almost 40 and as a small influencer would love to see our age group repped more in regards to beauty and makeup. I think there is a huge market for us and rarely see our age group repped. I hope that MG keeps us in mind as well.
I'm 54 and yes. We do need more middle aged influencers..im trying to get my channel going but it's tough being older!
❤ Yes!! I.totally agree with you!! I am going to check out your channel right now!! Glad i saw your comment!! Been looking for influencers in the 35+ category ☺
I'm 35+ and I think there is an audience for our age group.....however I don't think it is that big. It is usually younger audiences looking for these tutorials.
@@joolsdr My channel is turned off to private atm until I'm ready to relaunch...had to take a break due to some surgeries, medical issues but I'm gearing up to get it going again soon!
Terry Rendon i think its more that we need to see what products will actually work and look decent with our "mature" and "seasoned" skin. ☺
I love how open, honest, and intelligent you are. So inspiring. I have been following you for a long time and you have stayed so true to your audience and to yourself! 💕
Marlena I really hope you'll consider partnering with Emily Noel, her heart and her OG presence remind me of you so much! Y'all would make a great team on a project!
Yeeeees!!!
For sure!! They’d make a great team!!
I’d like this too. She’s so honest and sincere.
Here for this!!! So much yessss!!!
With the new algorithm it’s hard to find the smaller influencers, so I appreciate your highlighting them so we can discover new artists.
Yeeeessssss!
:(
I had just commented something similar, how there's just so many influencers & like you said, the algorithm, that it's not like you can just do a simple general search. I mean I suppose you could, but who has time to search thousands of pages lol
Perfect example of : “Be the change you wish to see in the world”
I feel your sincerity and I applaud you Marlena!
I will repeat my truth here too, hopefully the mature community will not be forgotten in your plans because we are always left out and we are important consumers as well! I may not do videos but I would like to see women in my demography using your products because it would be useful for us too! Talking about interaction with viewera, the ladies I watch, even those that have a few thousands subscribers, always always write back and they post a fews times a week.
Agree with every word!!!
Yes!!! It's hard to find someone over 40! The few I've found are fantastic but they certainly dont receive the love they deserve. We are savvy consumers, we have some disposable income, we still want to be trendy but not ridiculous! Great comment!
Marie Josee Pitre 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾
Thank you! You and Marlena are inspiring me to come back to my UA-cam channel. I am 43 and have been told by other bloggers/vloggers that there just isn't an audience for me in fashion and beauty. I am just starting out in this are and love it but feel like I am talking to a wall. So when I had surgeries this year, I took a break. These videos and your comments remind me why I started to begin with!
THIS ^^^
Marlena please don’t forget about us girls that don’t have perfect skin, I’d love to see a beauty influence that struggles with acne/large pores so we see what works out there.
Check out Allie Glines, she is great! 😊
Thataylaaa
Thataylaaa
YES!!!!! That is why I love thataylaa. We need more variety in skin types
Marlena, you have won my heart back 💕 I miss seeing your products. I started a collection of shadows years ago and I am going to go back to your products. You are transparently genuine and that is what I miss the most (and tutorials) so much love 💕
makeup geek has actually sent me products when i had 1,000 followers and i will never forget that! i agree it is the bloggers and the brands fault both. i know this is a business and that is fine but i just miss the artistry, creativity, the passion behind it all. we can build our brands while holding our integrity. big or micro influencer, big or micro brand, i hope we can all cordially succeed in this industry while maintaining integrity.
50shadesoflippies 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
I think I need to fill my collection with Makeup Geek because Marlena seems to be the only one I can trust ! Plus her brand is made in the USA meaning that everyone is getting paid a fair wage ! Thank you Marlena ❤️
Makeup geek is one of the only UA-cam companies I support. You want be disappointed! I wish for more stuff.
Thank you I’m 3,500 in debt because I was convinced that I needed to purchase more and more . I know this is my problem I turned to the beauty community as form of escape. I’m a cosmetologist but I was severely injured in a vehicle accident and lost my ability to do what I loved! I will tell you following these large makeup gurus has become a addiction hence the buy buy buy. It’s a awful feeling when you actually hear and see how these beauty influencers contradict themselves and what is really worse is watching de clutter videos of products that I have purchased solely because of their recommendations being through out or “Donated”.
ICU Comments Where is your self control tho ? You can’t blame others for your compulsive shopping disorder ! No one can force us to do or buy anything we don’t want !
ICU Comments so true. Buy this buy that you need this. 2 weeks later it’s being donated
I agree her debts on her, but I have also bought stuff because 10 influencers swear it’s amazing best product this year to see them not ever use it again then toss it. I do my research before I go spend a ton of money I really do and I can afford to buy it but I don’t want to waste money no one does I just hate seeing new launches or paid reviews saying it’s amazing or great and it not be. So now I watch for entertainment but it sucks I would like honest reviews.
Adi R yes I totally agree it’s my fault. I developed a shopping addiction related to my injury and my love of my career in this industry. When you see major influencers loving a product and telling you not to wait on this!! Also,, this is the best of blank product on the market!
I agree ... I found myself buying because I was told you need this. It filled a void and it really became addicting in a way. Thank god I realized quickly the game that was being played and stopped buying just because. People may say its your own fault for spending money, I get to an extent it is but do not think this isn’t exactly what influencers/companies want. They want people sucked in and blindly buying.
Personally I unsubscribed to almost all those youtubers because I don't believe or trust their reviews. I've been sub to you for years... way way before you even had a brand. I you have always been passionate and honest. I really hope other brands will follow your lead. ❤
I cross reference reviews online anyway. I worked with too many of them to know some just want the payout.
Same. I stopped following mostly everyone forever ago. It was obvious real quick that it was all about the money and that there was a click going on.
Same. For years...prob close to 10 now
Velvetulipe so true. I feel dumb because when I first started watching some of these big influencers makeup reviews, I would fall for the hype. It’s been eye opening as a consumer for me
YESSS, let's get back to the makeup. Back to the honest reviews! 🙌🏽🙌🏽 I'm so over all the drama. Let's focus on those who are honest and passionate, so excited about this movement ❤
Invite Lisa Eldridge!! She’s an amazing pro makeup artist and so sweet.
Not to mention all the camera filters used nowadays. I swear no one looks like that in person. Some use such bright light, it's hard to tell the real finish look because their face is so washed out, yet they want you to believe the product is amazing. I stopped paying attention to those so called "influencers" A LOOOONG TIME AGO! #4truthinmakeup
And botox and fillers.
Jaclyn looks like a frikkin cgi in her videos!
Bobbie brown uses filters on they're videos
Makeup Geek is honestly one of my favorite makeup brands. I have to honestly say, I kinda put them on the back burner because I was so overwhelmed with ALL the new crap coming out it seems like daily now. I think I’m going to get back to my roots, I miss my “peach smoothie,” and “shimma shimma.” I’m done wasting my money, because I will never be able to have all of it. Marlena, you are truly a nice person, thanks for having integrity.....
KirstenGlae Parker So true! I am on a no-buy and am just trying to love my collection!
I still use those! I have a bunch of MUG in Z Palettes. I wear makeup daily but rarely eyeshadows. When I do, I always reach for the MUG palette especially when traveling. Ride or die: creme brulee, peach smoothie, beaches and cream , vanilla bean (almost gone!), barcelona beach, shimma shimma, unexpected and cupcake. All you need to do natural, smokey and dramatic looks.
Sara01977 I love my MUG singles. I take mine with me when I travel. I use Peach Smoothie all over to set my primer, Creme Brulee in the crease, Cocoa Bear in the outer corner, and Shimma Shimma on the lid! My Ride or Die look right there!
KirstenGlae Parker yup I feel the same way. Like oh this came out I need to have that. And it’s a vicious cycle.
You are such a beautiful person inside and out. I have followed you since the begining. I have watched you back in the days when you were talking about starting a makeup company . And fast forward to 10 yrs later and your killin it!!! Yo go girl .... i love how honest you are and also how you have always stayed true to yourself. And that right there is a Boss/classy woman... Thank you!
It is better, be hated for what you, are - then loved, for what you are not. Already, 5, thumbs down ..hmmm....for me, personally, after watching you for years and going through , happiness and sadness, trials and tribulations of your life, you have ALWAYS been, genuine and wear your heart on your sleeve. When you spoke - they shook in their boots. We love you because of who you are, and what you stand for 💖
Thank you Marlena, I credit my late in life love for makeup to YOU and your tutorials I found a few years ago. You bring heart and genuine passion to the beauty community.
Thank you for doing this. Marlena and Emilynoel83 were the first beauty influencers I ever subscribed to. About 8-10 years ago. No one called them influencers back then either. I never had anyone to teach me about makeup and the main reason I watched was to learn how to apply makeup the correct way. I miss people getting on UA-cam and showing techniques and mentioning products they actually love and use. Not that they are sent and/or paid to talk about. The beauty community has become motivated by a passion for fame and money. No longer about makeup. I love that Marlena is going to work with smaller influencers and pro artists. I just really hope the beauty community can stop focusing on just money and number of subscribers/views and get back to the passion of makeup.
Emily is such a sweetheart! I'm SO glad her collaboration is doing so well- she deserves it
Same! Back in the day with the Naked palettes (of course that's where it started!) I went to UA-cam to see what people were doing with it. The world of palettes was a new thing to me, and then I got sucked in and loved it all so much I started my own blog. The getting free stuff was never the goal for me or even to get paid, it was a hobby and I was in college. Getting free stuff from time to time as a small blogger who was poor and in college was really nice because then I had something I could make content about, but I never let that influence my opinion at the product at the end of the day.
same!!! marlena and emily were my first two as well. i was one of the first 1,000 subscribers for emily, can't remember what marlena had at the time
Hey Marlena, I can see how emotional this video is for you to make, and just want you to know it's very appreciated. I've only started shopping your brand in the last year but you make me feel confident in that choice.
This is why I love you, Marlena! I have followed you from the beginning and seen you grow - I have grown with you as well! You are an inspiration to all women. Hearing you speak, I can relate to you so well. I feel like I am listening to an old friend. I can’t wait to see what you have in store for us in the future. Hugs from Texas!
LOVE YOU
Weeeeeeell RITH LUXTHHH! I freakin love you!!! 😁😘❤❤
Rich Lux SOW MASH
SO MAAACH!!
Cant get a day off to save his LIFE!!
Hiii, love you sooo machhhhhh!
I’m going to continue to support MUG, honest companies like you need to be protected by the beauty community, we can’t let corrupt influencers and brands win.
It’s different being a CEO of a company, than being the average bear
I know you do things for a reason, I’m so excited to begin my MUG collection
The Love U Give Thank you ❤️🤗
Same
jean grey I ordered my Pumpkin Spice palette 🤤 Super excited
Yes I am supporting them big time now. I even said so in a video following on from Marlena's. I already have a couple of their eyeshadows and will be adding more now, They are very affordable and equally as good
Graceful Knots These past orders are my first orders, haha! So I’m super excited to collect more
We love how honest you are Marlena!!!!! I learned to do my makeup watching your videos 💋💋💋 still loving your content.
Once again, thank you for your candor. And sweetness. It's so sad to think that Makeup Geek had a tough year. Makeup Geek is literally the BEST quality Eyeshadow that exists. I tell everyone that and always have. Your brand should be at the top and I hope that with all of these truths coming out, MUG also gets the recognition it deserves.
Jaime French I tell people that all the time too. When I first started really getting into makeup a few years ago (I’m older and I’ve always worn makeup but just the basics) My first eyeshadow palette was a Morphe 35o that everyone was raving about at the time. I used it for a while, thinking it was good. AND THEN I ordered a bunch of MUG shadows. Once I started using them I realized what GOOD eyeshadows were. I realized that it was taking twice the amount of time to blend the Morphe shadows and that they weren’t even NEARLY as pigmented. Since that time I have amassed a TON of eyeshadow palettes and there are only 2 that I use on a regular basis (ABH modern renaissance & Juvia’s Place Masquerade) But other than those two I reach for my (many) MUG shadows and to this day my MannyMUA/MUG collab palette is my go-to palette that I use all the time and the only one I travel with. The colors are just so beautiful and w/ that palette I can do anything from a quick wash of color to a bold dramatic smoky eye and anything in between. I love MUG. The shadows are just so user friendly so even a non-makeup artist like me can create super blended professional looking eye looks. And don’t get me started on the highlighters. I have a million and one beautiful highlighters but the MUG duochromes are the only ones I reach for.
I’m SO excited for the PRO makeup artists. Real MUA’s! I’m so tired of seeing the same techniques, that look great under beauty lights, but heavy and caked on in person. If anyone knows any good MUA’s that post regularly, please comment their names, so I can check them out!
Wayne Goss gets paid for most everything he shows.
Miss Krystyna , Bailey sarian, she’s amazing ! I love her she’s gorgeous , but different , it’s so refreshing. I hope you check her out , she and another lady work for Demi lovato and her crew .
Miss Krystyna , Bailey sarian is great !
Omg, yes, I'm tired of following people who aren't teaching me anything!
🙋🏽♀️ @claudsmakeup
Marlena, thank you. From an energy standpoint...keep clearing your throat chakra! This was needed for you along with all the throat clearing...amazing shift!
I hope that now these huge influencers are "exposed" that more micro influencers like myself that actually buy MG products and use them regularly will now be noticed. Its really up to all of us as consumers to be mindful of who we support. That goes for both companies and influencers.
Time for some fresh faces and truthful fun makeup!
MakeupMenaree I so agree. I think my biggest struggle with having a tiny channel is that I cannot keep up with those who get goodies pre-launch. By the time I’m able to get to the store or buy online there are 100s of big influencers who’ve made videos pre-launch. That does frustrate me because how can tiny influencers compete? We can’t but we shouldn’t give up!! 💕
@@LaynieLashes yes I find that to be a huge issue as well! By the time we get our hands on products it's too late. And sad thing is we are the ones who give HONEST reviews lol Def keeps you honest in you are the one buying the product for yourself lol I'm excited for this shift. Back to ppl who actually love makeup and do it bc they love it!
Laynie Lashes that’s a great point. It’s expensive to buy products and try them I’m sure. I’m rooting for you!
It is super expensive. Im in Tx so I have to order most products bc they never seem to be available when new. So by the time I do my reviews the hype is gone.
Yes, educate these people Marlena. Most of the time people are talking out of their butt because they don't know how this works. It's not only a beauty side, but also a business side to the beauty industry. Keep being the beautiful Marlena that you are; don't let these people stress you out. #4TRUTHINMAKEUP
Amen!!!!!
I NEVER comment on videos but I freaking love this video and everything you said Marlena!!!!!!! I can feel your passion for the beauty community. Your authenticity is greatly appreciated!!!!!!
I believe that PR packages have stopped these big influencers that get them ALL to stop looking at products from a customer’s perspective. They get them for free which means they don’t look at the product in an “is it worth the money” way anymore. Also, because they want to stay on the PR lists, not to get all the products for FREE, but to get the product FIRST so they can be the first to review it, to get the views, they try to be as soft as possible on the products & are not COMPLETELY honest. I think that if companies were to do away with PR packages but like a couple weeks before launch allow the influencers to PURCHASE the product early to review it (which would be a win win. The influencer gets to review it early to get the views and the viewer gets to see reviews on the product before it comes out to see if it’s something they are interested in) the reviews would become honest again.
Companies have to stop taking infliensers off their PR lists for speaking the truth about products. MUG did this too. Also quality of their products and packaging has been lacking but prices keep going up. Maybe they should worry about that first if she is talking about integrity in a beauty community
Luv2luvem so true. When I buy my makeup Vs when a family memeber or someone gives me a product they didn’t want, I hold it to a higher standard. Idk what it’s like from an influencers perspective but that’s a valid point you made
That's a brilliant idea
I don't disagree with you, but PR is so pervasive in so many industries I don't see it going away. I published a book last year and the publisher gave out bags and pins and a ton of swag to a bunch of random people.
I do see it as a huge problem that people are so scared of losing PR tho. When the whole Subculture palette kerfuffle went down, one of my favorite influencers did a review and tutorial and said all these nice things.....but her makeup looked like SHIT. It made me so sad because I don't feel like I can trust her anymore.
Kimmaline I know it will never happen, I just wish it would. But PR is probably the most cost effective form of marketing. I mean, just shell out the cost of the makeup (and not even resale price, the actual cost to make it) and shipping and they can get free promotion. I mean, it’s smart, it works and it’ll never go away. But these days I pretty much only go to small influencers that DON’T get PR for my reviews because they are the only ones that 1: bought it themselves, so they can tell me if it’s worth the money or not, and 2: they’re not on the PR list anyways so they aren’t worried about saying something to get taken off. I just think those are the most honest reviews and I really don’t take the word of any of the bigger “popular” influencers anymore.
Preach! ❤️🙌🏼 Back to the love of this community and playing with makeup! Love it! 🙋🏻💁🏻🙌🏼
We understand and support you, Marlena! You have such a good heart. Good luck and keep doing great things!!! I just shopped at your store. I love your plush mattes and EVERYTHING!
YESSS!!! Thank you for being so open & honest. I REALLY feel like this will be the turning point for the beauty community. 💖 HONESTY OVER EVERYTHING!! 🙌🏼 It makes me SICK when I can clearly tell a paid promotion is happening & not being disclosed. It's so disrespectful to the audience & the brand. (as well as other influencers that ARE honest. Not disclosing makes us all look bad) The brand could have gone to ANY influencer out there.. It's like a huge slap in the face to the brand giving them that opportunity when they don't disclose! Thank you SO much for using your huge platform to speak truth & the efforts you're making to bring this community back to our roots!! 💕 I can't wait to see what the future holds for you & MUG!! 💗
Yup. Money being involved, but being presented as a genuine review... turns it into a huge conflict of interest. When most do not disclose properly or fully... it makes everyone look bad & questions the trustworthiness. Not to mention, it's quite illegal.
Kait Nichole I feel like it won’t do anything. Like Samantha said, companies will just start being hush about what money exchange happens, that’s all.
Kait Nichole ccx
Well said Marlena! To spotlight women over the age of 40 would be fantastic! Being that I am 44 however look younger as I age my skin needs change so does my taste in makeup. MUG is a brand who always comes through with quality quality quality.
I found this video very important as you are both sides of the coin - brand owner and influencer.
PR packages need scaled down. People need to go purchase the products and try them out! Brands with quality speak volumes in application.
Thank you for wanting to showcase smaller channels and pros! Pros especially as they hold the key in technique. All day long if you gave me a choice I would sit with or watch a pro first!!!
Love Marlena. Thank you for taking the time today!
That is an amazing idea! I love it !!!! Women of all age and skin types love makeup and that would be such an awesome addition to the beauty community!
Thank you so much Marlena! As someone who is eventually going to create my own line I appreciate your pure honesty and candidness.
You are such a bomb woman/business woman/influencer! Thank you for being so raw & real. Maybe one day I can work with Makeup Geek! I’m a mommy/lifestyle influencer but I freaking love makeup & Makeup Geek!! I use your shadows every single day & Im proud to support you 😊❤️
Tres Chic Mama yes!! I love you lol, our babies are the same age!! Keep up the good work!!
I wish you the best! You sound like the supporter Marlena actually needs :0)
Don’t forget those amazing women over here over 30. They are gorgeous, talented and helpful.
exactly! Im almost 40 and even as a smaller influencer feel left out when everything is geared towards ppl my childrens ages. We love makeup too lol I hope they remember us!
I'm 35 and can't find influencers my age. I'll check you out tho!
@@susanmccormick2107 yes it's hard to find older influencers but I'm here! Come check me out lady 😘
Hell yes!! I'm in the #dirtythirty club!!!
Pixiwoo, Tati, Kristina Braly, and Makeup by Tiffany D.
I want to say thank you for doing all the videos that you have done. You are an amazing teacher. I am 27 years old and I didn't wear much makeup until 2 years ago. And I am now confident enough (thanks to you) to wear color, any color, and all colors that I want to!! My self confidence is so much better. I can afford high end makeup but can do amazing work with drugstore all thanks to you!!!
After watching this video I have so much respect for you and for Makeup Geek. Your commitment to your employees, work environment, wages, etc., as well as your commitment to the beauty community with honesty and artistry first is inspiring. Good on you Marlena.
Right I'm so happy the she is thinking about her workers, the people that make all this possible.wish every company would do that. It would be good if they'll decided to have a range payment to all influencers of course depending on subscribers with out over pay or under pay just something reasonable where every body will be happy and satisfied. That's what I think 😊
AVeryHappyLife totally feel the same way! Good on her!!!
Before UA-cam and beauty influencers was a thing, before digital media, this entire issue was seen in print media. I worked in luxury magazine publishing for almost 10 years, and our editors were sent all the makeup/skincare PR, designer handbags, exotic trips, and much more, just for a mere mention of a product. The greed was unreal, and there was zero integrity. I have always known that anything mentioned in a magazine was essentially paid for. Now it's UA-cam. You have to do the research yourself, use some critical thinking and buy something because you truly believe in the company as a whole, what they stand for and what they offer to the marketplace, which is grossly oversaturated.
I'd personally much rather support small companies than huge conglomerates-even if it means spending more. And if that means the money goes to the staff, that means everything.
I worked in PR to and for beauty company. And you're exactly right. This same thing went on in print media. So all that changed was the medium. When business is involved caveat emptor.
Oh, you mean be a responsible consumer? Who would've thought? ;) Loved your comment!
I love how transparent you have been in your last few videos! That is what I personally look for in an influencer. Honesty gets you so much further in life! I can’t thank you enough for your transparency! XO!
I love when people speak their truths and you can see they are genuinely saying the truth
Life as Lizz She is Awesome!!
Honesty is the only way that this will change!!
Akesha Chapa i know I really hope this beauty community changes! She seems so honest I love that
You’re are the queen of YT. Classy and Intelligent.
Amen!
Amen.
Yours was one of the first channels I started watching here on UA-cam. I love Makeup Geek products and will forever be a loyal subscriber!
The so called beauty influencers who are reacting negatively to your videos, have guilty consciences....they know they were exposed and so they go on the attack. They are running scared because their greed and phoniness are now on blast. They will lose subscriptions so they are freaking out. Hold on tight Marlena......the cream always rises to the top.
rhon715 SO TRUE!!
LOVE MUG!!
I am a consumer, and I have been seeing all these "my truth" videos, and I have honestly been getting tired of them. I watch UA-cam and influencers so I can get better tips and tricks on how to do my makeup. I absolutely love your products Marlena, they are beautiful, nicely pigmented, blend beautifully. I appreciate you coming on here to speak your side of the story. Now, hopefully, we can all just get back to watching videos and loving makeup and just having fun. Love you Marlena and your company, just keep smiling :)
I love that you are bringing new faces to the beauty community. I started looking up makeup artists here on YT a few weeks ago even before you mentioned it and I found some gem channels. Can't wait to discover some new talented people!
I think the price influencers are getting paid is rediculous, the price consumers are paying for makeup is rediculous!!! The consumers are getting sick of it!! We're finding out that 95 percent of these influencers.....are full of crap!! I will buy my own makeup, if it doesn't work, it will be returned! I don't need some fake review, I will do my own review!!!!
Collette yessss same here
Right, don't really know who you can trust.
Have you ever watched Bailey Sarian?!? OMG she's a real one. She's been around forever! She's so funny and her makeup speaks for itself. Check her out, seriously...
Agree! They're on tropical vacations and we're paying $40-$50 for foundation?! Ridiculous! And no influencer on this platform is worth even 20K a video! Not even PewDiePie!!
Collette yes ! Well said ! I agree . I ain’t listening to these high influencers anymore . I’m doing it on my own lol
There is a reason why i have been following you from day 1! Hats off for you Marlena!!! xxx
Every big influencer that i am subbed to started off in their bedroom doing their videos and the content was always focused on the make-up and the application of make-up...teaching us to do it ourselves. There was also focus on it didn't matter what brand you were using in fact most times it was using affordable make-up. But then it all changed and suddenly it was like watching commercials for high end make-up making us feel like we had to have these products to get a look. The honesty went out the window and so did the real connection between viewer and content creator. Let's get back to that like Marlena said! HONESTY...why is that so hard??? We can do this. Give your view to someone who is a positive influence!!! Great video Marlena and i totally support you and what your trying to accomplish in the beauty community!!!❤❤❤#4truthinmakeup
All your words, my thoughts EXACTLY. No staged backgrounds or pro lighting. Webcam videos with actual makeup fun. I miss that.
@@nataliaarita4165 Girl me too!! Some of my favorite videos to watch were where the 2 channels would send each other make-up(i forget what they actually called them)! Do you remember that?? And those days collabs just meant the 2 channels were going to either shout each other out and do the same concept in their videos or we really got a treat and got to see the 2 people collab in person on their channels! Those were the good old days....yeah my eyebrows were questionable but it was fun to watch lol.
👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
Hi Marlena! Please don’t forget about the seasoned and mature influencers in the beauty community!
I agree! Im almost 40 and even as a small influencer often feel left out bc the aim is for ppl my childrens ages. We love makeup too! lol
I love this comment. I feel like I don't see many influencers over their 20s. Im 32 I always try to find ppl my age but not much luck when it comes to fashion or makeup type stuff so sometimes i can't relate haha
You’re amazing and the best part of the video you speaking about how well you treat your employees !!! That it self speaks so much about you and your company !!
Fake / interested Community is angry because the more they have more they want, you are the best and we know that there is a lot of talent in people who are not yet noticed, DRAMA is drama, funny that someone ppl bothers to publish photos on a page, when they should thanks that Publisity is for free. 🤗 #TeamMG
DamarisMakeup You mean the 71 people who disliked this video? 😂
Marlena, you are such a gem. There aren’t very many people out there in your position that are kind, genuine and so relatable. Taking the time to really care for others is so above and beyond what others would even do, you really are amazing! Thank you for being you. You are an inspiration to us all.
Marlena is a class act! We need more influencers like this woman!
Class act? I'll never forget when she called Rihanna's line clown makeup on their launch day. The jealousy was real. Good she's trying to help micro influencers since she's screwed a couple over in the past. People have been presenting receipts.
I will always support you and Makeup Geek. Well spoken Marlena.
Yaaasssss omg I love you for what you do for our community! Keep kicking ass, Marlena!!
*Thank you Marlena!! I'm so ready!! **#4truthinmakeup*
You are so real and so wonderful. You shouldn’t have to explain yourself like this! Keep being genuine and wonderful! Here is to seeing changes in this community!!
And Marlena!!!!! I seriously have been following you for the past 8 years!!! I love your videos and your brand!! Ive supported you and what you stand for - for a long time. I only use your makeup brushes bc they are quality AT a good price!! And when its in my budget i order from you. I also LOVE that you’re concerned about your staff as much as your product!!!! I wish the place that I work for cared that much about me!!! That alone means so much and says a lot about you.bc you care about the people behind the scenes!!! And I appreciate that!!! I’ll Continue to support you and what you stand for!!! Thanks for making these videos OXOXOXOX
The OG has spoken!!! Loved you from day one!!
I do mainly editorial and red carpet makeup and Marlena you have been so supportive and sent me a lovely (and so generous) gift after I had such a negative response from brands that used to be supportive of actual makeup artists. I was told that because I only have 2k followers on instagram they wouldn't gift products to the celeb I was working with for an awards show in the uk. Thank you for the support of artists and not just "influencers", who in my opinion, have ruined the industry that I was once so passionate about.
Thank you for taking the time out to explain how all of this works... at least a glimpse !! Love you and the time and energy you put in all of this ! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
I can tell your heart and soul is in UA-cam/ the beauty community!!!! You are a queen and deserve to be the queen of this beauty community the mama of it all. I love that you have been in this industry for so long and still stick to your truth and your morals. I will be watching all your videos, jus give me a few months lol. I wish u the best girl. I’m one supporter of you, and I hope there’s millions standing behind you!!! I was thinking in my head about a month ago like why doesn’t big youtubers shout out micro Influensers?? Bc they don’t want many people to take there spot and it’s sad, I’m definitely not saying I deserve to be on top, I’ve only been posting videos for a few months, I’ve supported youtubers since 2013 tho. I really hope you see this comment cuz you are a fantastic example of a great person. I hope nothing but the best for you and much success 💄💋
You are such an inspiration, Marlena!
DanahBanana I just subscribed to your channel. Definitely do the challenge. You are so talented. 😘💕💄
Stephanie Hofmann thank you so much, love!!! I will for sure. 😍
I was just about to comment for Marlena to support you! I found your videos from her last video when you commented and have been loving them so much! 💜💕 keep up the amazing work!
DanahBanana hi danah😘😘😘
DanahBanana ... and soooo beautiful!!!!
I’m glad something was said because i don’t think we expected our influencers to be basically salesmen. They started out with us before being a “youtuber” was a job. So we did not understand this stuff. It’s very eye opening. We need to be aware of what we are endorsing with our subscribing. WE give them the numbers that allows them to charge these crazy rates. We should all go through our subscription list & make sure we subscribe to people we really support.
You are a breath of fresh air in this community 💕💕💕
Lord I love the person you are. You've always been so relatable, so honest, silly and just a good human being. I love what you are trying to do for the beauty community and bringing it back to its roots. I miss the old UA-cam and how it was tutorials and looking at makeup collections. It has definitely moved into what feels like constant ads and commercials rather than, "I'm doing this because I love makeup." I agree with you, everyone should be allowed to make a buck, but like you mentioned, honest disclosure is necessary. We love you Marlena. Keep being that amazing girl boss.
Thank you for this. As a very mature (older) woman I completely understand the struggle with supply, demand and cost. I am a supporter by purchasing your products and viewing your channel and feel that truth will ultimately go in your favor. Continue speaking the truth and you will always come out on top.
Can you please make a video on the makeup you are wearing in this video? Pleeeeease ❤️
I agree with you 100 percent. You were one of the first youtubers I watched and I trust you.
I loved this video! Thank you Marlena for always doing what you can for the beauty community! I remember watching you from the very beginning seeing what a journey you've been on! You're such an inspiring woman! xxx
Love this, 100% honesty is what I get from this and that is refreshing!!! 💖
Love how honest you are! We micro Influensters need a chance! I’m so ready for Makeup Geek! Love you Marlena. 😘💕
Kapbeauty I. Not an influencer but I support all smaller channels!
Kapbeauty I am subscribed to so many “ micro influencer “ because they are so good!🌟
Yes ma’am just subscribed
Tamara Figge thank you so much! Mine is in Spanish 😂 but I appreciate you support small channels 😘💕
patin319 I knowwwww they create such great content! 😍🙌🏼😘💕
Honestly I’m so excited for this movement because we all started because of passion for makeup and artistry and there’s a select few I already follow who I truly love and are smaller. Yes Marlena we are excited
I'd much rather support a US company that pays fellow citizens a good wage. There are few good jobs for us these days. I'd love to work for a company that supports it's employees and is concerned with the well being of their employees. There are a few of them out there but they're the minority. Thank you Marlena for having a US based company with US employees.
People complained about MUG prices but if a company is producing products in the US and paying fair wages, the product price cannot be rock bottom like the prices offered by WetnWild and Elf for example (made in China). You don't need every makeup product, just budget for makeup from quality companies that take care of their employees. :)
@@Tisiphone2 I concur! It's worth a few extra bucks to me knowing that people are being treated fairly. I'm not saying I'd never buy from companies that produce products in China since I literally bought an Asian foreign car today but there's something about supporting a good company ran by good people who take care of their employees.
I’d love to see you go into Ulta 💖. I know that we would sell make up geek so well there. I know that it’s probably a lot more difficult to do then just all let me put my stuff in a big Chain store. But I remember about a year ago I had a lot of people who talked about make up gig that would come and do my job and it’s affordable I mean color pop does really well. I know I would buy her stuff if you sold the brushes there and everything oh girl I’d be so down!
yes for sure
Me too!
I’m w u
She is in target 😊
I think it would take a lot for that to happen. As great as it sounds! She has spoken about that stuff before. Target is huge for her💃. Hopefully one day!!
Marlenas always been super nice and supportive ! I’m so excited for these upcoming videos with the microinfluencers
WE STAN A TRANSPARENT, NO BULLSHIT, BUSINESS QUEEN
Has anyone noticed these influencers post a video, then you don't see them for 2 weeks to a month because there always sick. They are sick more times then a 2 year old that goes to daycare, when they work from home!! It's because there getting over paid! It's like Mc Donald's always saying there ice cream machine is broke! It's b.s. and the consumer is catching on!!
Collette Love your comment! I can relate as I have worked with people like that who are sick more times then a 2 yr old in day care! That is so funny and so true!
Collette I’m pissed cause the most I would charge is 2k not matter what. That’s how you make money not no 60k all at once. Just shows that they REALLY want nice things and big houses when they can work towards it in a fair way. Sad but true.
@@bd8962 sad but true. Yes, I think most of us were think just that. Like Tati, I get how she might have a big house and nice thing. Cause that girl has posted 5 days a week for years and worked her tail off. It's just all getting out of control....SAD.
Collette YES Tati is a great example on how it should be.
Collette 😂 yes the ice cream machine it’s Always broke!! I though it was only my local McDonald’s 😆
This video gives all of us Mirco Influencers faith! Thank you so much Marlena for everything that you are doing in your power to make a change and make this community better!!
You are truly a breathe of fresh air and a inspiration. I'm a 42 yrs old woman that found her love for makeup around the beginning of this year. I hopped on youtube and starting watching alot if the " popular" influencers. It sad to say that I myself have been swindled by the lies and deception of some of these influencers. I assumed they were giving honest true reviews on these products. I didnt know any better. Up until I started watching the influencers I had never even heard of Morphe, Two faced, Tarte ect.. I barely knew the products I saw at the local pharmacy. So I trusted them and starting building my makeup collection off of products they recommended. Not all turned out to be bad choices but alot did and I now sit with a beauty full full of ALOT of products I dont use , that are horrible and I wouldnt even give away. My solution was to stop buying makeup all together until I can figure out who to trust and who not to trust. I cant afford to keep buying makeup that the influencers swear by just to end up with subpar products. So i hope by you starting this movement it will waken up people in the beauty community and they will realize that they are hurting thier subscribers greatly by not being honest. Yes they are earning $ but at our expense. I just found you and Subscribed to u through all of the JH drama. Wish I had found you sooner. Keep doing you and standing out from the rest ♡ sending lots of love from Massachusetts
Oh yea, the same happened to me. I got into watching beauty videos 3 yrs ago and the rubbish I've bought all cuz someone swore by it is ridiculous. Sometimes I remember how much I've spent on makeup and it pains me.
Now I don't just go off a whim anymore. Not that I can afford to do that now. I have a bit of MUG single eyeshadow and I still use them till today. Love them..
Can you do a video on your new shades and the pumpkin palette?
I love supporting makeup geek because of you and making the products are very stunning !
I came across your video today on my feed on UA-cam and I agree with you!! Yes, we all would like to make money however how most of these beauty influencers are going about it is unethical. Narcissistic personalities are capitalizing off of makeup brands is how I truly see it.